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Heritage railway operating since 1878
In 1878, construction commenced on the Port Augusta and Government Gums Railway. (Government Gums is now known as Farina, and lies close to the northern end of the Flinders Ranges). The Port Augusta and Government Gums Railway Act of 1876 stipulated that the gauge of the railway "shall be 3 feet 6 inches" (1067mm) with iron rails "not less than 40 pounds to the yard." The railway reached Quorn on 15 December 1879, and Government Gums in 1882. Government Gums was chosen as the terminus because of a reliable water supply. The line was extended to Oodnadatta in 1891 (becoming the Great Northern Railway) and further to Alice Springs (771 miles or 1241 km) in 1929, as the Central Australia Railway. The famous Ghan passenger train travelled this way between 1923 and 1956, and beyond Marree, on the northern part of this route until 1980.
You can enjoy a full-day or half-day trip aboard a restored steam or heritage diesel train on the original Ghan route between Port Augusta and Quorn on the Pichi Richi Railway.
Watch gum-lined creeks, bluebush-studded hills and ancient rocky outcrops roll past at the relaxed pace of years gone by. All trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages some more than 130 years old.
Since 1973, volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society continue to proudly restore and run the railway, one of the Flinders Ranges' top attractions.
We operate on selected dates from March to November each year. Click to see our timetable, click to book online or phone 1800 PR RAIL (1800 77 7245) to book at the Flinders Ranges Visitor Information Centre.
Introducing a brand new premium heritage experience, - The Commissioner’s Explorer
Introducing a brand new premium heritage experience, the Commissioner’s Explorer
Travel like a Railway Commissioner.
For an afternoon 50 guests will have the rare opportunity to step aboard one of the beautifully restored Commissioner's carriages "Flinders, Sturt or Light” and enjoy an unforgettable journey through the spectacular Pichi Richi Pass.
These carriage were specially designed so senior railway officials could inspect the railway in comfort while travelling through regional South Australia.
On Friday 25 September 2026, you'll experience this remarkable piece of living history behind heritage locomotive YX141, travelling from Quorn to the beautiful Tickle Belly Hill.
Along the way, our passionate volunteers will share fascinating stories and unique commentary about the Commissioner's Train, the railway and the rich history of the Pichi Richi Pass, making this much more than a train journey—it's a step back in time.
After arriving at Tickle Belly Hill, relax and enjoy a delicious Australian themed afternoon tea, and the warm country hospitality the venue is renowned for before returning to Quorn.
Whether you're fascinated by railway history, love heritage travel or simply enjoy unique South Australian experiences, this promises to be an afternoon to remember.
Bookings open soon online... either by booking via facebook or bookings on this website page.
If you are interested in travelling on this experience please ring Flinders Ranges Tourist Information Centre on (08)86200510 to put your name and number or persons traveling to secure your seat.
- DATE: Friday 25 September 2026
- * DEPART QUORN: 1:00pm
- * RETURN: Approximately 4:30pm
- * $215 per person
- #TrainExperience #travel #AfternoonTea #experience #southaustralia #steamtrain
Have you ever seen horses travelling on a heritage train? 🚂
Have you ever seen horses travelling on a heritage train? 🚂
Take a look through some wonderful photos on our socials (facebook and instagram) and you'll discover one of Quorn's most unique traditions – horses travelling aboard their own specially designed carriage on the historic Pichi Richi Railway before riders set off on an unforgettable trail ride through our spectacular countryside. The smiles say it all. For local horse enthusiast Jenni, it all began with one simple question...
"Would anyone like to ride with their horses on a train and trail ride back to Quorn?"
While horse train rides had been enjoyed by riding groups many years ago, they hadn't taken place since 2008.
Having experienced them herself and remembering just how special they were, Jenni felt it was time to bring the tradition back.
In 2022, she spoke with friends at Pichi Richi Railway, gathered together a small group of experienced riders, and with the generous support of local property owners, organised the first ride back through the breathtaking country surrounding Quorn.
The response was overwhelming. Around 12–15 riders shared a day filled with friendship, stunning scenery and the unforgettable experience of seeing their horses comfortably travelling aboard the heritage train. Looking through these photos, you can see the excitement on everyone's faces and why this experience has become so memorable.
The success of that first ride inspired another in 2024, with even more like-minded riders enjoying a different trail back to Quorn, creating new friendships and lifelong memories along the way. Now, in 2026, the tradition continues.
For Jenni, it's about far more than the ride itself. Riders spend time in Quorn enjoying our cafés, pubs and local businesses before the grand finale of loading their horses onto the train. It's a sight that fascinates visitors, with many stopping to watch and photograph this remarkable experience.
"I don't think there's anywhere else quite like Quorn where we're fortunate enough to enjoy an experience like this," says Jenni.
A heartfelt thank you to Jenni for her passion, vision and dedication in bringing this wonderful tradition back to life, and to the local landholders and everyone involved in making it such a memorable experience.
👀 Keep an eye on our website and social pages. Another horse train adventure is planned for later this year, and we'll be sharing another story about this unique experience in the coming months. You won't want to miss it! "
#PichiRichiRailway #Quorn #FlindersRanges #SouthAustralia #HeritageRailway #HorseTrailRide #RegionalSouthAustralia #VolunteerDriven #UniqueExperiences #visitsouthaustralia #media #abc #brentonragless #fun #social #quorn #media #horsetrails #cosi #southaussiewithcosie
Introducing Tracks Through History - Pichi Richi Railway Podcast
Introducing Tracks Through History
The Official Pichi Richi Railway Podcast We're excited to announce the launch of Tracks Through History, a brand-new podcast from Pichi Richi Railway.
For more than 50 years, our dedicated volunteers have worked to preserve and share South Australia's railway heritage. Now, we're bringing those stories to you in a whole new way. Each episode will take you behind the scenes to discover the people, projects, history and passion that keep one of Australia's most iconic heritage railways alive for future generations.
🚂 Episode One – The Restoration of the Goods Shed Our inaugural episode explores the remarkable restoration of the historic Goods Shed. Hear Adam and Brian share the stories behind this significant project, the challenges overcome, the dedication of our volunteers and why preserving this important piece of railway history matters. Whether you're a railway enthusiast, history lover, volunteer, member or simply curious to learn more about Pichi Richi Railway, we invite you to sit back, tune in and enjoy the journey.
🎧 Listen now via the Pichi Richi Railway website, where you can choose your favourite platform.
Available now on: ✅ Spotify ✅ YouTube Podcasts 🍎 Apple Podcasts is coming soon!
If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love your support.
Please: 👍 Follow the podcast
❤️ Share it with your family and friends
💬 Let us know what you think in the comments Every listen, follow and share helps us preserve and share the remarkable stories of Pichi Richi Railway with audiences across Australia and around the world.
This is just the beginning… we can't wait to share many more stories with you through Tracks Through History.
🎙️ Listen now: HERE
#podcast
